Kashmir – Paradise on Earth

Are you planning to visit one of the most heavenly places in India this vacation, Kashmir is the place to be. Beautiful Scenery covered with snow capped mountains and mesmerising view which not only gave treat to your eyes but soothing experience to your soul. Kashmir is northern state of India which offers so many sightseeing giving you never forgetting experience right here on earth. Every place in Kashmir is full of gardens and lakes which tells the love story of Mughals. Best time to visit this beautiful state anytime between April to October. I am writing about must visit places in particular as there are other places also to visit in kashmir as the place itself has lot more to offer.

Places to visit :

Srinagar– It is the largest city lies in the Kashmir valley on the banks of river Jhelum, Dal lake and Indus River. This city offers you to stay on houseboat which rims the dal lake and also don’t forget to take a ride on beautiful Shikara which runs through the whole dal lake gives you the breathtaking view and one must make the bookings well in advance as they are cheaper. The floating market takes place everyday from 4 am to 6 am on Dal lake. It is also a base location for visiting places like Kargil, Dras, Dachigam National park, and Pahalgam. It also consists of places like Hazratbal Mosque (Women are allowed on the first part ), Nagin lake, Cricket bat factories, Manasbal Lake, Walur lake, Apple Orchids, Kheer Bhawani Temple, Pari Mahal and many more.

Gulmarg- This Place is also known as “Meadow of Flowers” boasts one of the World’s highest golf course, Frozen Lake and famous Gondola Ride addition to Gulmarg Ski Resort which is located at 8600 ft offers Skiing experience both Amateur and Professionals.

Pahalgham- This place is located 104 kms from Srinagar and also called a village of Shepherds which is situated at the height of 8200ft above the sea level. This Exotic Emerald Green Valley is a Paradise of Recreation and Leisure so anybody who wants to spend some alone time this is the place to be it is also a home to a fantabulous Golf Course perched on top of the valley at 7800 ft. If you have plans to extend your stay on this particular place you can also plan a picnic on the Banks of River Lidder or for Shrine visit then one can spot nearby Temple ruins in Avantipur.

Mughal Gardens- There are three Gardens namely Shalimar,Nishat and Chashm-e-shahi which are famous for their architectural exquisiteness and also built as a summer residence and Royal Court which adds history to this place. The layout of both Shalimar and Nishant bagh are similar to that of Persian Gardens with the water source in the centre. Chashm-e-shahi garden is named after a mountain spring near shrine called Chasma Sahibi and this Shahi Bagh is known for their medicinal value. In autumn, the Mughal gardens are covered with fallen red golden leaves which send you and your loved one to some other world and whose memory last forever. This place is also known for the shooting of Priyanka chopra’s movie saat khoon maaf.

Shopping: One should never return before buying Pashmina Shawls, Kashmiri Carpets, Walnut handicrafts, Flower vases and Bowls, Kangiri(a woven basket with earthen pot inside). The above you can buy from Srinagar.

How to Reach Srinagar : By Bus, By Train and By Air (from Delhi & Chandigarh)